Mumbai, March 24: As geopolitical tensions continue to impact global LPG supplies, thousands of households across Maharashtra are transitioning to Piped Natural Gas (PNG) for a more reliable and cost-effective cooking fuel. With recent government mandates prioritising domestic gas supply and major providers like Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL) and Maharashtra Natural Gas Limited (MNGL) launching aggressive expansion drives, securing a connection has become more streamlined.

As of March 2026, new initiatives include zero upfront registration options and bill credits to encourage urban residents to make the switch. What Is PNG Connection and How To Get It?

Determining Your Service Provider for PNG Connection

The first step is identifying which City Gas Distribution (CGD) entity operates in your area. In Maharashtra, the network is primarily divided by geography:

  • Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL): Covers Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Mira-Bhayander, and parts of Raigad and Ratnagiri.

  • Maharashtra Natural Gas Limited (MNGL): Serves Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Nashik, and districts like Latur and Sindhudurg.

  • Adani Total Gas & Others: Operate in specific pockets like Ahmedabad-linked borders and industrial belts.

Residents can verify "technical feasibility" by visiting the official website of their respective provider and entering their pin code or society name.

What Is the Application Process for New PNG Connection?

Once feasibility is confirmed, the application can be completed through three primary channels:

  • Online Portals/Mobile Apps: Most providers, such as MGL via the "MGL Connect" app, allow for digital registration.

  • Customer Care Centers: Physical walk-in centers are available for those who prefer manual paperwork.

  • Society Help Desks: Many gas companies set up temporary registration camps in large residential complexes undergoing "gasification."

Documents Required for PNG Connection

Applicants must submit one document from each of the following categories:

Costs and Payment Schemes for Piped Natural Gas Connection

In early 2026, providers have introduced flexible payment structures to lower the entry barrier:

  • Full Payment Scheme: Typically involves a refundable security deposit ranging from INR 5,000 to INR 6,500.

  • Instalment Plans: Many companies now offer a "Zero Upfront" model where the security deposit is recovered in small bi-monthly instalments (e.g., INR 500 per bill) added to the regular gas usage charges.

  • Promotional Offers: MGL is currently offering incentives such as free gas worth INR 500 for new registrations completed between March and April 2026.

Installation and Activation of PNG

After the application is processed and the initial fee (if any) is paid, a technician visits for a site survey. The installation involves laying an external Galvanised Iron (GI) pipe to the kitchen and installing a specialized meter. Crucially, once the PNG connection is activated, the consumer is required by law to either surrender their existing subsidized LPG connection or kept it in "safe custody" (non-subsidized) within 60 days. The conversion of existing gas stoves to be PNG-compatible is usually handled by the provider's technician during the final commissioning.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 24, 2026 08:11 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).